SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (January 14, 2009) - Smith & Wesson Corp., the legendary 157-year old firearms maker, announced today that the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has approved select models from the company’s Military & Police (M&P) Pistol Series as authorized firearms. The approval allows DEA special agents to purchase approved M&P pistols for use both on- and off-duty. The DEA now joins the growing list of federal agencies to test and approve the M&P pistol for duty use.

Leland Nichols, Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Smith & Wesson Corp., said, “This approval from the DEA reflects the ability of the M&P pistol series to meet stringent federal requirements in the areas of reliability, accuracy and endurance. We are confident that our M&P pistols will meet the expectations of the DEA, as they have done for other federal, military and law enforcement agencies that have selected them for professional use.”

During a thorough evaluation conducted by the DEA Office of Training in Quantico, VA, the M&P pistol was subjected to a wide range of tests to determine its dependability and reliability. The evaluation included a two-day endurance test, with 10,000 rounds fired from each pistol, followed by a measurement of the pistol’s accuracy. The agency also conducted testing for environmental exposure as well as a physical impact analysis. In each of the tests, the M&P pistol met or exceeded the DEA requirements.

Both compact and full-size models of the M&P pistol chambered in 9mm, .40 S&W and .45ACP were approved by the DEA. The approved pistols include the M&P9c, M&P9, M&P9L, M&P40c, M&P40, M&P45c, and both the full-size and mid-size M&P45. Agents are permitted to purchase pistols with or without night sights.

Engineered to become the handgun of choice for global law enforcement and military personnel, the M&P pistol design is based on input from numerous law enforcement and military organizations. The M&P pistol is manufactured on a Zytel® polymer frame, which is reinforced with a stainless steel chassis. The M&P pistol also features a through-hardened black Melonite® finished stainless steel barrel and slide for added durability, a sear release lever that eliminates the need to press the trigger in order to disassemble the firearm, an ambidextrous slide stop and a reversible magazine release. The pistol’s innovative design is further enhanced with three interchangeable grip panels, allowing the user to customize the grip size to his or her preference. A loaded chamber indicator is located on top of the slide and an internal lock system is optional for both working professionals and recreational shooters. The M&P Pistol Series utilizes a steel dovetail mount front sight and a steel rear sight. Tritium sights are also available for low light conditions. A universal Picatinny-style equipment rail has been incorporated for tactical lights and lasers.